Denise Rachal Nichols, 69, of Orange, Texas, passed away on February 18, 2024, at Focused Care in Orange.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at Claybar Funeral Home in Bridge City. Officiating will be Reverend Paul Zoch. Burial will follow at Bland Cemetery in Orange.

Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at Claybar Funeral Home in Bridge City.

Born in Orange, Texas, on June 4, 1954, she was the daughter of Vernon Glenn Rachal and Ruby Norwood Rachal. Denise graduated from Bridge City High School and furthered her education at Lamar University. She worked as a nurse and had a passion for being a caretaker, especially for her pediatric patients. Denise's nurturing nature extended beyond the hospital walls - she was a confidant to many, offering advice and comfort to her daughter's friends who affectionately referred to her as "Mama Marcell". Outside of her career, Denise found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was a huge animal lover and cherished spending time outdoors. Whether at the family camp at the lake with loved ones, fishing, or on her daily trips down Bailey's Road, Denise found solace in nature's beauty. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Vernon and Ruby Rachal; her son, Shon Babineaux; her sister, Sharon Rollins; her husband, Milford “Peanut” Nichols; and her niece, Lea Tate.

She is survived by her daughter, Holly Babineaux; her step-sons, Charlie Nichols and wife, Mindi, and Jeremy Nichols and wife, Stephanie; her nephews, John Bennett, and Jerry Baskin; her sister, Glenna Baskin; and numerous other loving family members and friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be Charlie Nichols, Calvin Corkran, Boogie Babineaux, John Bennett, Mark Steele, and Jon Whisenhunt. Honorary pallbearers are Jerry Baskin and Steve Skidmore.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Focused Care and Hospice Care Team for their wonderful care and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association and the SPCA.